Google has made a groundbreaking move by employing AI to rewrite its search engine algorithms. This development has left many SEO experts wondering about the future of search engine optimization. For those familiar with ChatGPT, spontaneous writing might be a daily activity, but this time, it’s Google—the epitome of the internet with a staggering 90% market share—that’s taking the plunge.
AI Search Assistant
“The AI takeover of Google Search starts now”—this is the slogan coined by renowned media outlet “The Verge” in response to Google’s recent AI transformation announcement.
Liz Reid, the Vice President of Google Search, demonstrated the latest search engine interface on her laptop, highlighting the key differences. Unlike the immediate display of search results on the first page as before, the experimental AI-generated answers now occupy the entire screen.
3 Reference Links used
In real-time, the AI generated a compelling narrative about the deliciousness of sourdough bread and its beneficial probiotic properties. Furthermore, three reference links appeared in the top right corner, indicating the sources used by the AI to generate the text.
For users familiar with ChatGPT, such impromptu writing might be commonplace. However, this time, it is the Google Search engine, synonymous with a staggering 90% market share and the internet itself, that is embracing this approach.
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Top 3 Positions on Google Search – New Ranking Competition
In the Google search results page, AI-generated answers now come with several reference links attached.
In the top right corner, there are three reference sources.
“SEO still has work to do!” tweeted Lily Ray, a senior search engine optimization specialist from New York.
Higher rankings lead to better click-through rates. Especially for search results occupying the topmost positions on the page, they receive the highest traffic. With multiple successful SEO experiences, one can deduce this conclusion from the data.
Foreseeable decrease in no. of content creators
However, when ChatGPT can fluently provide answers based on user queries, SEO experts begin to worry: Will AI give credit to content creators?
Without credit, there is no traffic, and content creators and websites don’t benefit. Naturally, they would not want to “contribute content” to search engines.
Based on the latest demonstration of Google search engine, the links are still there. However, the quantity has significantly decreased, averaging less than three.
A significant decline in organic click-through rates for homepage rankings is to be expected.
Simplifying Search Queries – From Keywords to Conversational Dialogue
Traditional search queries are evolving into conversational dialogues, thanks to advancements in AI technology. Google understands that when you’re preparing to attend a wedding in Miami, your search journey typically involves multiple queries like:
- “Miami weather in May”
- “Fast delivery dresses”
- “Breathable dresses”
- “Popular colors for spring”
- “Outdoor wedding attire”
However, with the integration of AI, the search experience now resembles conversing with ChatGPT or a chatbot. You can now simply input a comprehensive query like:
“Where can I find a breathable dress in the popular colors for attending an outdoor wedding in Miami, with delivery in just 2 days in May?”
This single query captures all your requirements, eliminating the need for multiple searches.
AI utilizes information from the web to generate on-the-spot responses tailored to your needs. Furthermore, it can suggest follow-up questions and provide additional insights based on its answers.
Transforming Shopping Search Experience – Introducing Google’s Shopping Graph
When it comes to searching for “dresses” on Google, simply entering those two words gives you a general idea, but the search results are predominantly visual, filled with carousel-style images and lacking informative articles.
Enter Google’s “Shopping Graph” – a groundbreaking technology.
The Shopping Graph encompasses over 35 billion “listed” products, organizing various specifications and details into a comprehensive database. When someone seeks a specific product, the algorithm retrieves a few suitable options from this vast pool of data.
Google believes that with the integration of AI technology, it gains a deeper understanding of your purchasing desires.
Gone are the days when searching for a “commuter bicycle suitable for 5-kilometer mountain roads” would yield only images. Now, what catches your eye is a complete reference guide to bicycles, including:
- Key purchasing factors
- Latest unboxing experiences
- Ratings
- Prices
- Product photos
All presented neatly in a tabular format.
Thanks to Google’s AI, the entire buying guide is meticulously organized and prominently displayed on the homepage. You practically finish reading an entire purchasing article before even “beginning” to see the natural search results ranking on the homepage.
Perspectives Filter – Collection of Unboxing Videos, Forums, and Articles
The Perspectives Filter: Google’s innovative feature designed to extract first-hand unboxing experiences. Whenever you search for product reviews, unboxings, or personal insights, this filter becomes your go-to tool. It gathers content from a user’s point of view, providing you with a wealth of information such as unboxing videos and forum discussions.
“Why is Google turning search into a blend of TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest?” Some may question as they witness the transformation. Gone are the days of clean, minimalist “10 blue links” on Google’s search results. Instead, we’re gradually embracing a more visual approach, reminiscent of Windows tiles and captivating Instagram images.
But let’s not be resistant to change. Market preferences evolve, and perhaps the younger generation appreciates this amalgamation of styles. Join us as we explore this exciting new frontier and understand why Google is adapting to cater to the changing needs and preferences of users.
Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) and the Evolution of Search Ads
Search ads are still here
They are Google’s primary source of revenue and play an indispensable role by blending in with various search results.
Search ads are distinguished from organic search results by bold black text that reads “Sponsored.”
The New Search Experience: SGE
Search Generative Experience (SGE) is Google’s latest attempt to revolutionize the search engine.
▸ A Different Search Interface ▸ AI-Generated Search Results ▸ Traditional top 10 rankings pushed below AI results ▸ Deeper search experience ▸ Conversational search mode
Google brings AI into the search engine, riding the wave of TikTok and ChatGPT. If they bet right, SGE could become the next generation of search, sacrificing the traditional 10-link format for a completely new search experience that might even reshape the face of the internet, just like it did decades ago.